Benefits of Working with an IBCLC
You may be asking yourself, “why should I hire a lactation consultant?”. If you are wondering what are the benefits of working with a breastfeeding expert then this blog post is for you.
Let me take a second to explain what an IBCLC is, there are many breastfeeding support roles such as a breastfeeding counselor and a certified lactation consultant. However an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant has earned the gold standard in lactation care credentials, meaning an IBCLC is a breastfeeding expert who is tasked to protect and promote breastfeeding through education, support, hands on guidance, and serving as a resource to their community. An IBCLC spends up to 1,000 hands on hours working with breastfeeding families along with meeting all educational requirements before sitting for the international board exam. Once earning the IBCLC credential continuing education and recertification occurs every 5-10 years. IBCLC’s must adhere to the WHO breastfeeding code as well as the regulations and scope of practice of the credentialing body International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners. Each IBCLC has an identification number which can easily be verified.
Okay so now that we’ve got the technical stuff out of the way let’s get into how an IBCLC can help you!
Here are a few examples.
Lets say that your baby is experiencing slow weight gain and your pediatrician is telling you to stop breastfeeding and to offer formula, but you really want to breastfeed…guess what? An IBCLC can help develop a plan with you and your pediatrician to make sure that breastfeeding is continued while encouraging weight gain.
Many American families haven’t been exposed to breastfeeding, learning about the benefits of breastmilk, how to get off to the best start with breastfeeding, and what is normal when it comes to breastfeeding is vital. Many IBCLCs offer breastfeeding basics classes.
Painful latch and sore nipples no matter what you try
Questions about medications and compatibility with breastfeeding
Treating clogged ducts, mastitis, thrush, nipple vasospasms
Introducing a bottle
Breastfeeding after a tongue tie release
Are you pregnant with multiples? Getting support before birthing your babies will come in handy
Oral anomalies such as a cleft lip or palate
Breastfeeding a downs syndrome or special needs baby
Breastfeeding an adopted baby or relactation
Encourager when breastfeeding seems impossible
Weaning guidance
These are handful of examples! IBCLCs are trained to help with a variety of complex breastfeeding issues and work as part of your healthcare team. Some IBCLCs have specialties in different areas which is awesome to meet specific needs.
As you can see there are many situations in which an IBCLC can beneficial to a family, not only do they provide expert advice but they are a go to resource for up to date information and able to collaborate with your pediatrician or healthcare provider to keep everyone on the same page.
Thanks for reading Mama,
Morgan Jackson RN BSN IBCLC